Bakelite checkers in backgammon

Every backgammon game requires the same equipment; a board, checkers, doubling cube and two dice. Although having the correct equipment may be enough for newcomers or the occasional backgammon player, enthusiastic backgammon players like to take pride in their equipment and choose the best possible accessories to enjoy their favorite backgammon game. Backgammon equipment comes in all shapes and sizes, and each has matching price tags; you generally know the quality of the product by how much you pay.

Central to the backgammon game setup are the checkers as these are the most handled pieces of equipment. One of the most popular types of backgammon checkers used is Bakelite checkers. These checkers were made by a company that found a way to thermo set plastic so that it would set whilst keeping its shape when exposed to high temperatures. This meant that Bakelite checkers are considered to be of superior quality to later plastic versions that altered the production method with quantity rather than quality in mind.

The Bakelite production method was initially used to create decorative pieces such as jewelry and ornamentation. However, the distinctive feel caused by the production method used made the material an ideal and attractive choice for regularly handled game playing pieces. As the backgammon game was one of the most played board games at this time, the company produced Bakelite checkers for the discerning backgammon player.

The Bakelite Company was a pioneering company in the early twentieth century. Of course, there are many exceptional modern products on the market today, but many backgammon players use their vintage Bakelite checkers pieces to play today.